Local Medical Team To Serve The Medically Needy In Guatemala

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October 26, 2012|Rosemary Martocchio, ECHN, Eastern Connecticut

Crossroads Outreach Medical Mission (COMM) International is preparing for a mission trip to Guatemala on Oct. 31. COMM, a non-denominational Christian organization affiliated with Crossroads Community Cathedral in East Hartford will be making its second annual trip to Esquipulus, a town in eastern Guatemala.

The mission team this year is comprised of 20 self-supporting doctors, nurses and non-medical volunteers from the Eastern Connecticut Health Network and other area practices. They will be providing medical and primary care for the medically underserved people in the mountains of Esquipulus. The residents and medical personnel of this area do not have resources for exams, medicines, supplies and equipment.

During their 3.5-day mission in 2011, over 830 adults and children were seen by a team of 12 doctors and nurses, plus several local medical personnel. Diabetes and hypertension were diagnosed and treated, as well as many infectious diseases, and several minor surgeries were performed. Medications were dispensed as needed, everyone seen was given a supply of vitamins, and all children were treated for intestinal parasites. Donated reading glasses were distributed to needy adults.

The COMM volunteers rely solely on public support through donations and fundraisers to supply these necessities that they ship ahead or carry with them. Because of the generosity of many caring people, the group was able to raise $15,000 last year to purchase medications and supplies. This year the goal was increased to $20,000 due to the great need. The group is currently close to the $18,000 mark and in need of more funds in order to cover the cost of necessary supplies.

If you would like to donate or would like more information regarding this humanitarian effort, please contact Dr. Faustinus Onyirimba at fconyirimba@aol.com.